Pickleball has taken the world by storm and Malaysians are deeply entrenched in this whirlpool with growing interest!
Pickleball’s popularity is now at astronomical heights, thanks to social media. Instagram and TikTok are flooded with images of well-clad, good-looking ladies and gentlemen strutting their gear on court. This sport is suitable for all age groups and is a cross between tennis, badminton, and ping pong.
If you haven’t heard of pickleball yet, read as we shed light on what is pickle ball, how pickleball gets its name, the price to book pickleball courts in Malaysia, and more fun facts!
We’ve reviewed some of the best pickleball courts, and mediocre ones that you can explore with caveats.
What Is Pickleball & Fun Facts
Pickleball is a fast-growing paddle sport that combines elements of ping pong, tennis, and badminton.
Pickleball is played on a badminton court, using paddles that are shaped like a tennis racket. In terms of strokes, pickleball requires more controlled and smaller strokes similar to ping pong.
The height of a pickleball net is slightly lower at 34 inches high (vs. tennis at 36”), while the badminton net towers over both at 61 inches.
While it is a sport suitable even for the least sporty individuals, it can transform into a fast-paced, competitive game.
Unlike tennis, Pickleball is generally easier and less technical. This is due to the smaller court size, lighter paddle racket and hollow pickle ball, and simplicity of the rules.
The smaller court means you need not move as much to get the ball, while the lightweight paddles and plastic balls accelerate the learning curve.
Pickleball was invented in 1965 by Joel Pritchard, an American businessman and politician.
His wife, Joan, named the game because it reminded her of a pickle boat in the crew.
A pickle boat is a crew boat constructed of leftover rowers from other boats. Since the Pritchard’s made pickleball with leftover sporting equipment, the name “pickle” aptly describes this game made out of leftovers.
Pickleball Equipment You’ll Need
If you are a social or casual pickle ball newbie gauging out whether this sport is for you, then head over to a pickleball court and rent a pickle racquet. Nets are available at the courts so you won’t have to bring along yours.
Dress is comfortable sporting attire that allows freedom of movement and in cotton material, or sweat-wicking material that keeps you dry.
As you progress, up your ante by buying your pickle racquet, ball ad =pickle ball net. A beginner’s paddle ranges between RM50 and RM100, while professional-grade paddles costs RM300 or above.
Dress for the sport Pickleball is a very trendy sport, so look that art and accessories further by getting a pickle bag.
Where To Shop for Pickleball Sporting Gear
1. Decathlon
Not to miss out on of pickleball craze, Decathlon has offered a full range of pickle equipment since September. From lightweight pickleball paddles to heavier ones for powerful shots, you’ll also find balls, shoes, apparel, and other accessories at Decathlon.
As for fashion, go on a shopping frenzy as they have a wide range of tennis skirts, skirts, tennis shorts and T-shirts made of breathable material.
Seek assurance from Decathlon's unrivaled return policy that allows buyers to return the purchased product within 365 days from the purchase date as long as it is used and in good condition.
The starting price for a pickle ball paddle at Decathlon is RM169.
2. MyPickle Ball
This one-stop-shop pickleball maestro sells pickleball gear online and offline and even has a practice court that you can book for only RM30 per hour.
Their pickleball paddles are of premium grade with a starting price of RM340 and above.
You’ll also find a range of Sweat-wicking skorts, tops, t-shirts, and shorts that look trendy and on-point.
Their Performance-laden equipment and a wide cohort of equipment coupled with expert advice make them an excellent reference for you to learn more about this sport.
3. Shopee & Lazada
If you’re testing the waters and indecisive on whether pickleball is your kind of sport, then this is the place to shop.
Shopee and Lazada offer cheap pickleball paddles at RM29.00. You can also buy beginner pickle ball sets comprising of 2 pickle ball paddles, 4 balls, and a pickleball bag a steal for RM69!
With a myriad of designs to choose from different sellers, shopping convenience is just one click away.
4. Arronax Malaysia Pickleball Paddle Shop
Arronax Malaysia is a premium pickleball specialist that sells everything you’ll need for the sport. From Novice, intermediate, and advanced pickleball racquets, and portable nets to grip tape, they even have guides on how to choose the right gear.
Key in the code ARRONAX5 upon checking out to enjoy an additional 5% discount on purchases.
These online and offline sites offer the convenience of selecting and browsing in-store at the location below.
Address: D1-0-08 OUG Parklane, Jalan 1/152, Taman OUG Parklane, 58200 Kuala Lumpur
Operating Hours: 9 am – 7 pm on weekdays; 9 am – 5 pm on weekends
Contact: 016-322 2970
5. Diadem Malaysia
Launched in 2015, Diadem is an American tennis racket specialist whose offering transcends to pickleball paddles.
Helmed by collegiate, pro players, and coaches, Diadem’s pickleball equipment is priced at the mid to premium price point.
Their best seller is none other than the Hero Starter Kit. Priced at RM459 for 2 pickleball rackets and 2 balls it’s the perfect bundle for first-time pickleball players. You can up your ante and strive for speedier shots with their higher-end racquets at RM1,149.
You can also enjoy free shipping for orders above RM200.
15 Best Pickleball Courts in Malaysia
1. Pickle Social Club
Pickle Social Club is the talk of the town among pickle ballers!
Its immaculate vibes, great court quality, and all-encompassing after-game conveniences with trendy restaurants and bars make it not just an ideal playing court.
But the perfect place to foster new relationships, rekindle friendships, and spend quality time with loved ones and family.,
There is enough parking space along the streets and next to the International Gallery. KL City Pickleball is fully air-conditioned, including its toilets too! Given its top-notch facilities that are conducive to sport and comfort, you’ll find yourself spending the entire day chilling here.
With a social event calendar that’s well lined up there’s always something to woo the crowd in. Throw in a magnificent sunset view reminiscence of your last holiday plus friendly staff, KL City Pickleball is one of the best pickleball courts in Malaysia.
Address: 3, Jalan Bukit Kiara 1, Bukit Kiara, 60000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan
Kuala Lumpur
Operating Hours: 8 am – 12 am on weekdays: 8 am – 11 pm on weekends
Contact: 010-238 8903
2. Hyperground Pickleball S19
A veteran venue in hosting pickle events, Hyperground redefines the pickleball scene offering.
The courts are decked in vibrant shades of lemon and ocean blue, such mood-boosting color palates make the game even more invigorating.
The deck and chilling areas are an Instagrammable corner, setting it apart from other courts. This cozy area is perfect for chilling and chatting while you wait for your game to start.
The VIP courts are surrounded by netting, so you won’t be interrupted by incoming balls from the neighboring courts.
However, if you don't mind other players coming over to pick up their ball, then community court at RM35 an hour is quite s steal!
With many influences frequenting this place and boosting its popularity, you’ll need to book way in advance via Courtside to secure the court.
Address: 116, Jalan Professor Khoo Kay Kim, Seksyen 19, 46300 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Operating Hours: 7am – 1am daily
Contact: 011-1248 3503
3. DINK2 Pickleball courts
Flaunting a spacious area with 5 dedicated indoor courts just for pickleball, DINK2 Pickleball features a high-quality court surface with a ball bounce rated 10 out of 10.
They have recently updated their nets to the portable JOOLA Pro Pickleball nets, thus enhancing player experience.
Equipped with shower rooms and free parking, DINK2 can be booked via the AFA app.
As for pricing, the off-peak rates for normal courts are RM39 per hour, while the peak hour rate is RM60 on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. You can also fuel up at the food court just below this pickleball court.
On the downside, while it’s fully air-conditioned and equipped with vertical cooler units, the ventilation can be improved and it can get a title stuffy at full capacity on a hot day.
Address: 1, Jln SS 8/6, Sungai Way Free Trade Industrial Zone, 47300 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Operating Hours: 8am – 2am daily
Contact: 011-6868 1002
Links: Instagram
4. Pickle Jam Courts
Well-known for their well-spaced baselines and side lines, high ceilings, and excellent ventilation, Pickle Jam Courts is a hidden gem for pickleballers in the Kepong area.
While it lacks Instagrammable features or colored flooring, its robust surrounding netting prevents unnecessary distraction from the ball bouncing to the neighbor’s court.
The ball bounce is top notch and the lighting is good perfect even for night play. It's a wholesome place to play pickleball with your family and access to the shopping center below it fuels up with a meal and massage.
Pickle Jam offers pickleball group coaching for adults and children between 10 and 15 years old, helmed by Coach Melvin.
Above all, there is ample parking even on weekends.
Address: Level 3, Lotus Kepong, Jalan 7A/62A, Bandar Menjalara, 52200 Kuala Lumpur, Federal Territory of Kuala Lumpur
Operating Hours: 8am – 12am
Contact: 013-393 9711
5. Pickle Factory
Its name Pickle Factory aptly describes its whereabouts, which is in the heat of the Subang Jaya industrial area.
With 6 pickle ball courts and 3 entrances, Pickle Factory presents a comfortable playing atmosphere, especially in the early morning and evening. With cafes lining the courts, fuelling up for a meal before and after a game is convenient. The lighting is decent and the court contrast allows the ball to be spotted easily.
However, being in a factory area with spartan greenery, the afternoon heat radiates into the indoor court. Despite installing the exhaust fans and wall fans, the outside of the court can feel cooler at times.
You’ll also find players cutting across courts to get to the other court, to tick pick up stray balls. Space is limited and you’ll find more bays at the roadside. Like the concept of the cafe just beside the courts, and roadside parking.
Address: 1, Jalan SS 13/3d, Subang Jaya Industrial Estate, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor
Operating Hour: 9am – 12am
Contact: 016-937 0988
6. JomPickle Sports Club
At RM25 per hour, JomPickle Sports Club probably offers one of the lowest rates in the Klang Valley.
Located in Icon City, the court exudes good bounce and contrast, and you can rent paddles here too.
While ventilation is good thanks to a steady flow of natural wind, ball control can be difficult on a windy day.
There’s a 7-Eleven nearby and some restaurants to dine in after the game. Each court has a waist-high barricade, hence reducing the amount of time you’ll spend chasing after balls that went astray.
JomPickle Sports Club’s lighting used to be insufficient. But the operators have corrected it and it's worth checking out.
Address: Pusat Perdagangan, Icon City, 47300 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Operating Hours:
Contact: 011-5421 3612
Links: Facebook
7. 91 Sports Arena (CPS Subang & 91 Pickleball)
Located on the second floor above Giant USJ, 91 Sports Arena boasts 18 air-conditioned courts. Thus, earning the title as the largest pickleball clubhouse in Malaysia.
The lighting is perfect and bright to support the sport, and the air conditioning is just right without being overly cold. Some find the upbeat music energizing, while others find it an annoyance having to shout to be audible.
Due to its popularity, you’ll need to book at least one week in advance via the AFA app. We like that it has an automatic timer that turns off the court lights to conclude your booking time.
As for areas for improvement, its court booking fee errs on the high side at RM50 during off-peak, and RM70 during peak hours and weekends.
However, if you don’t find the price a hindrance, you're guaranteed a pleasant playing experience.
Tip: Try to book the corner courts for more space and privacy. Given the proximity of each court, you won't have to put up with balls from the other court crossing over as there are no nets erected.
This pickleball court is also popular among families with kids and players of all ages and backgrounds.
In addition, the on-going construction at the badminton court and restrooms causes the environment to be dusty and somewhat distracting.
Nevertheless, be patient as 91 Pickleball has all the makings to be a great pickleball court, once the dust from the upgrade has settled.
Address: Level 2, Giant USJ, Persiaran Subang Permai, Usj 1, 47500 Subang Jaya, Selangor
Operating Hour: 8am – 1am
Contact: 014-663 8891
8. Pickle World
Pickle World is an Instagrammable pickle ball court strategically located along Lorong Tandang. Here, players strut their pickleball skills while showered in lilac-colored lights, bordered by striking purple tarmac.
Due to the outdoor lighting seeping into courts A, B, and C, the glare from the sun while playing in the afternoon makes it difficult to spot the ball.
A higher net or fence should be erected at the VIP court and around courts A and E to prevent balls from accidentally hitting the cars parked outside.
We like that the courts are well-spaced, which guarantees no balls bounces into your court from the neighbor.
In hindsight, the benches at the common courts can be placed nearer to the lounge area to avoid mishaps.
Finally, staff should enforce stricter surveillance and put up notices to discourage players from wearing high heels to the court as it is riddled by indentation from the heels.
To make the most of this pickleball court in Petaling Jaya, avoid playing between 2pm – 4 pm where the glare is at its worst.
Address: Lorong Tandang B, Pjs 51, 46510 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Operating Hours: 9 am – 1 am daily
Contact: 019-686 8314
9. JC Pickleball Centre @ Bukit Puchong
JC Pickleball Centre is set within SJK (C) Sin Ming. The courts are originally badminton courts set within the school’s multi-purpose hall. But thankfully the bounce is not significantly affected for leisure playing.
Since it’s a school compound, visitors are not allowed to park inside. Instead, cars are lined to the rim at the side of the roads.
The price to book per hour is reasonable at RM 45 and this includes 4 complementary paddles. While you can book the court directly from the website below, there are no available slots in the morning as it is used by the school. Courts can be booked after school hours from 6 pm onwards.
Address: No. 1, Batu 16, Jln Puchong, Taman Desa Ayer Hitam, 47100 Puchong, Selangor
Operating Hours: 7pm – 1am from Monday - Saturday; 8am -1am on Sunday
Contact: 017-690 5240
Links: Website
10. KL City Pickleball
If you wish to play pickleball in the wee hours of the morning, then head over to KL City Pickleball that’s open 24 hours.
Located adjacent to MyTown Shopping Centre, KL City Pickleball consists of covered and uncovered pickleball courts. With a booking rate as low as RM30 per hour during off-peak for the uncovered courts, it offers one of the cheapest and most affordable pickleball courts in the Klang Valley.
You’ll find ample parking space where you can park for free. There are shower facilities and a café attached to it too.
On the other hand, the court bounce is somewhat unpredictable at the balcony court, and it tends to get quite slippery after rain. Should it pour heavily, the covered court can get wet from the strong wind.
Nevertheless, the friendly staff work tirelessly to drain out the court by sweeping the courts dry.
Bookings can be made via WhatsApp or the Courtside app.
Address: 18, Jalan Kampung Pandan, Kelab Golf di Raja Selangor, 55100 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan
Operating Hours: Open 24 hours
Contact: 012-783 5661
11. Picklepoint
Offering decent pickleball courts encircled by greenery and an unobstructed view of the surroundings, Picklepoint features 4 indoor and 4 outdoor courts. Located before the turn-off to the Honda Service Centre, this pickleball court offers paddle and ball rental too.
There is lots of space between the courts and the sitting area, which means you won’t get hit while resting. However, the barricades are not very effective. Thus you’ll spend a decent amount time picking up balls that went astray.
The lighting for the outdoor courts can be improved. Against the green flooring, it’s hard to spot the pickle ball in mid-air.
Free parking is available and it offers many parking bays within its premises. Price-wise, it’s not the cheapest (at RM48 per hour off-peak; RM68 during peak hour for the covered court) compared against pickleball courts that offer better facilities.
Nevertheless, Picklepoint makes a good fallback alternatively if you can’t secure a booking at your preferred courts.
Address: Lot 2808, Jalan Damansara, Kampung Sungai Penchala, 60000 Kuala Lumpur, Wilayah Persekutuan Kuala Lumpur
Operating hours: 8 am – 12 am (daily)
Contact: 017-581 1055
Links: Instagram
12. NZX Pickleball Club & Sports Arena
Riding on the pickleball frenzy, NZX converted some of their badminton courts to pickleball courts. Expectedly, these badminton courts don’t offer sufficient bounce for pickle balls, and the uneven rubberized surface makes the bounce unpredictable.
As an open-air court with a closed roof, you’ll find the strong wind conditions at night unfavorable for both pickleball and badminton.
If you're playing badminton next to the pickleball court, the pickle balls will keep rolling over to your court, which is a disturbance for both sides of the game.
The pricing is low at RM 30 per hour but be forewarned that the courts here are not designed with pickleball first.
Address: Jalan PJU 1A/41B, Pusat Dagangan NZX, Ara Damansara, 47301 Petaling Jaya, Selangor
Operating Hours: 8am – 12am
Contact: 011-2552 9791
13. Penang Pickleball Club
Located in Juru and away from the heart of the city's hustle and bustle, the Penang pickleball club evokes a tranquil and relaxing environment encircled by verdant greenery.
Unlike some courts, the high ceiling and excellent ventilation prevent the court from getting stuffy even during hot afternoons, despite not having air conditioning. The purple-coloured courts provide good contrast and excellent bounce making it suitable for casual and competitive pickleball games.
With energetic music piped through the background, the vibes are fantastic, making the game more enjoyable.
To top it off, the staff are helpful and friendly, making it a popular choice thronged by pickleball enthusiasts in Penang.
Address: PT815, Jalan Bukit Tambun, Juru, 14000 Bukit Mertajam, Pulau Pinang
Operating Hours: 8am – 12am from Sunday – Friday; 6pm – 12am on Saturday
Contact: 013-941 1559
Links: Courtsite.my; Facebook
14. Picklemotion, Penang
Strategically located inside Gurney Paragon Mall, Picklemotion boasts a stunning blue
skyline as a backdrop with sweeping ocean views.
The open-air courts facilitate Instagrammable moments, and their friendly staffs happily accommodate your changes in booking if the weather is unfavorable.
On rainy days, the staff goes the extra mile to mop up rainwater from the court, so that players can use the court once the rain has subsided.
At RM25 per hour and only RM5 to rent a paddle, Picklemotion offers one of the lowest pickleball rental prices in Malaysia.
On its downside, it is subject to shifting wind conditions, which means ball control can be challenging on windy days. In addition, should you hit the ball out of the barrier, you’ll need to walk a distance to pick the ball as there are only 2 entrance and exit points.
Nevertheless, the friendly owner and coaches make it a fun experience for beginners learning how to play the game. Court booking can be made from their website at the link below.
Address: 163d, Gurney Drive, Gurney Paragon Mall, 10250 George Town, Penang
Operating Hours: 7am – 12 am daily
Contact: 011-6129 6233
Links: Website
15. Forum Tebrau, Johor Bahru
With newly fitted pickleball courts reviving this established sports complex in Johor Baru, Forum Tebrau is poised to be one of the preferred sports arenas.
These pickleball courts feature good contrast with a surface that facilitates excellent bounce. Made especially for pickleball and not badminton, its surroundings are well-maintained and clean.
The friendly facilitators on-site dishes excellent coaching and teaching tips to help newbies up their game ante.
The shower rooms come with a heater and there is ample parking space too. Given its top-notch facilities, Forum Tebrau is ideal for both casual play and competitive pickleball games.
At RM20 off-peak and RM75 peak rates, Forum Tebrau’s offers pickleball court booking prices is affordable.
On the downside, the nets barricading the pickleball court are a little low, and the ball can fly a stray to the neighbouring courts.
Address: Toppen Shopping Centre, L4.E.03 & L4.E.04, TOPPEN Shopping Centre, 33A, Jln Harmonium, Taman Desa Tebrau, 81100 Johor Bahru, Johor
Operating Hours: 8am – 2am
Contact: 014-932 6080
Conclusion
With pickleball courts outnumbering badminton courts on major app booking platforms, it’s a sign that pickleball ball has swept Malaysia like a torrential frenzy.
This trending sports wave gives court owners and pickleball equipment sellers a new boost with an additional income stream.
While it’s good to capitalize on its meteoric popularity, court owners should not offer facilities below par and try to convert existing sub-standard badminton courts to pickleball courts.
The educated pickleball fraternity has many options and they will in the long run shun operators that offer below-par facilities.
In the meantime, here’s wishing you more golden pickles as you shake and bake your way into the kitchen!
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